The German forward has played most of his football on the left since moving to the Emirates Stadium last summer, where he is usually deployed for the national team, but he led the line in last weekend’s 1-1 draw against Manchester United.

Although Podolski struggled to impose himself in that match, his manager insists that the former Koln man has all the attributes to succeed in the role, with Giroud out for a further two games.

"I believe [he can play up front], he has the qualities because he is a good finisher," Wenger told the club's offical website. "He has a good technique and because we have a game based on very quick combinations I believe he can be a part of that. Overall I am convinced in the coming games he will show it.

"At the moment, yes [I will play Podolski in the middle]. A definite decision has not been made but if there is an opportunity then there is a good chance I will do it."